Destination guide for Munich’s Viktualienmarkt.
History
In the heart of Munich sits the famous Viktualienmarkt. The market was initially located in Marienplatz until the start of the 19th century, when it then relocated to its current location. This new location was at first named Marktplatz, but the name evolved to Viktualienmarkt, from the Latin word Viktualien, (expression for food). Over the years, the market expanded, finally reaching its current size in 1890. Today, the Viktualienmarkt is a thriving market where one finds fresh produce, homemade goods, eateries, cafés, and a beer garden.
Maypoles are a traditional Bavarian symbol, and in 1962, thanks to former Mayor Albert Bayerle, the city’s first maypole was erected at the Viktualienmarkt. The maypole depicts quintessential aspects of Munich, including Oktoberfest, a brewery team, the Schäffler dance, the patron saints of brewers, St. Boniface and St. Florian, and more.
Visiting the Viktualienmarkt
The Viktualienmarkt was one of my favorite places in Munich and a highlight of my trip. There is just so much to love about the Viktualienmarkt: the colorful flower stalls, the vibrant fresh produce, the delicious aromas from the food stalls, and, best of all, the laughter and random singing coming from the beer garden! During my time in Munich, it became an afternoon tradition to stop by the Viktualienmarkt, grab a coffee, take a stroll through the market, and then grab some dinner. This market is also the perfect place to stock up on great local items for gifts and souvenirs.
The Viktualienmarkt is located near the Marienplatz and next to the Heilig Geist, one of Munich’s oldest churches. Given the limited street parking, the best way to reach the market is by public transportation (there are bus stops next to the site) or by walking. I was fortunate that my hotel was just a block away from the Viktualienmarkt, which is why I was able to visit it every day!
If you drive to the market, there are a few parking garages within walking distance of the market.
The first time you visit the market, it can feel like a maze, but I discovered that maps are posted in a few places to help you navigate the site. One of those maps can be found on the wall of Fritz, a store that sells coffee and baked goods (see picture below).
In terms of food, there is something for everyone: tons of sausage dishes, seafood, baked goods, international cuisines, soups and salads, vegetarian dishes, and much more. If you’re on a budget, there are some great low-cost options available at the market! As for the shopping, you can find just about anything at the Viktualienmarkt. I found stalls selling wines, spices (bought some delicious smoked salt for my friends), homemade decorations, honey, plants, jewelry, and the usual souvenirs (think keychains, magnets, postcards, etc.)
My two favorite places at the Viktualienmarkt were Sababa, an amazingly delicious Middle Eastern eatery, and Kaffeerösterei Viktualienmarkt, the best café in town. In the section below, I provide more information on Kaffeerösterei Viktualienmarkt, and I will be writing about Sababa in my upcoming Munich dining guide (coming soon!).
For the most part, the Viktualienmarkt is accessible, though some stalls may be a tight squeeze for those in a wheelchair or mobility scooter.
The stalls at the Viktualienmarkt are closed on Sundays and Holidays, and each vendor sets their own operating hours.
The majority of vendors accept credit cards, but a few are cash-only. It also helps to have some cash on hand for tips.
Great Café at the Viktualienmarkt
One of my favorite places at the Viktualienmarkt was Kaffeerösterei Viktualienmarkt. This quaint café sold coffee beans, prepared coffee drinks, and baked goods. The coffee was excellent and reasonably priced, and I loved the beautiful milk art. I stopped by this café a few times as their cappuccinos were the perfect caffeine fix for those long sightseeing days! The cappuccinos, both the small and large options, cost under €5. You can enjoy your coffee at the café or, for a small fee of € 0.10, request a to-go cup.
My tourmates, Ron and Claudia, discovered a garden stall at the Viktualientmarkt selling these adorable frog figurines!! The market is truly a giant treasure hunt; you never know what you’ll find in the stores.
Photo Credit: Claudia
Resources
For additional information, visit the Viktualienmarkt website.
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